Should I massage my mastectomy scar?

Should I massage my mastectomy scar?

Massaging scar tissue helps the body to remove built-up collagen from the site, leaving the scar flatter to the surface of the skin. Repeated massaging can keep the scar supple and flexible. It is also an excellent way to help the scar remain moist, which aids the overall healing process.

Can you get a massage after double mastectomy?

Massage can also help create space and alignment in surrounding muscle tissue, such as in the upper chest and shoulders, which may be very tight after surgery. And lymphatic drainage massage can aid in keeping lymph circulation flowing, which can help reduce swelling.

How do you massage your breasts after a mastectomy?

Put the flat part of your fingers on the scar. Move the skin and tissue under the scar back and forth, holding for a few seconds. Make sure you press enough to feel the scar “move” under your fingertips. Move your fingers along to the next section of scar, and repeat until you’ve massaged all along the scar.

How do you massage your breasts after lumpectomy?

If you have had a lumpectomy: • Place your hand on your chest above your breast. Massage up your chest to your neck, using several small strokes. Gently stretch the skin as far as it naturally goes and release. Repeat 10 to 15 times.

When should you start massaging a scar?

When should I start massaging my scars? You should start massaging your scars two weeks after surgery. Wait until the sutures have been removed and all scabs have fallen off by themselves. Do not pull your scabs off.

How do you massage your breasts after reconstruction?

Common Massaging Techniques

1. Cup one hand over each breast and press downward then upward.
2. Push each breast toward the middle of your chest, hold, then pull breasts outward.
3. Place an open hand on each side of one breast and gently squeeze the breast before similarly squeezing the other breast.

How do you massage your breasts after radiation?

Take your opposite hand and, starting at the nipple, massage in a circular motion around the entire breast area, ending at the axilla (armpit). 4. The purpose of this massage is to break up scar tissue formation and move any breast fluids out of the breast as well as provide moisture to the skin.

Can you massage scar tissue too much?

If the patient is finding massage helpful, continuing to massage for longer than six months is not harmful for the scars and can be encouraged. Remember to let patients know that they should stop massaging if the skin feels warmer than the skin around it, they experience bleeding or more pain than usual.